huntswithmutts wrote:Can anyone recommend a taxidermist in NE IL? Looking to get two pintails mounted. Thanks.

Where are you located and how far are you looking to travel?

I live in the city but I drive up to the northern suburbs quite a bit to see my parents. Willing to drive within two hours of the city in any direction. Not opposed to going up to southern wisconsin if I can save some money.

huntswithmutts wrote:Can anyone recommend a taxidermist in NE IL? Looking to get two pintails mounted. Thanks.

I went through Bland's Taxidermy in Loves Park, IL to get my first pheasant mounted. Very reasonable prices. Work on website looks good. Friendly and helpful owner.

"The chase is among the best of all national pastimes; it cultivates that vigorous manliness for the lack of which in a nation, as in an individual, the possession of no other qualities can possibly atone." - Theodore Roosevelt

Sent you a PM. Be wary of taxi's who do "all kinds" of animal mounts, as the 'generalists' aren't usually very good with waterfowl. Based on personal experience, I would look for someone who specializes in fowl--just my 2 cents!

if your in the city Ed Bailey is a very good taxidermist 250/duck 500/Goose hes at the top end of the price scale but he does amazing work hes located right by Midway airport pm me if you would like more info.

sabre210 wrote:Sent you a PM. Be wary of taxi's who do "all kinds" of animal mounts, as the 'generalists' aren't usually very good with waterfowl. Based on personal experience, I would look for someone who specializes in fowl--just my 2 cents!

NOT in NE Illinois but You might want to look at Bradsbirds.com he is out of Illinois (St.Louis area) or Birdman studios out of CO. Your going to have to ship but thats common for some good taxidermy work. No I have never used them but their work looks amazing. Just an option.

I have a guy that does great whitetail work for me but I don't think I would send a bird to him. Just saying.

I know this is an older thread, but I personally like Bland's in Loves Park. He's done my pheasants, ducks and a turkey mount and they are always very good. The only downside I would say is the waiting period to get your stuff back (although I think everyone is pretty slow usually). It's September and I still haven't gotten my ducks back from last fall yet. For the reasonable price and good quality work though I don't mind waiting.